Computer-aided concurrent engineering in refrigeration system design

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Abstract

Computer-Aided Concurrent Engineering Design (CACED) is an
emerging field which stems from the realization that a
holistic design approach, simultaneously considering all
requirements, will result in systems that can be fielded
quickly, and at the lowest practical lifetime cost. The
philosophy inherent to CACED is that in a multi-faceted
design arena, requirements such as cost, performance,
reliability, produceability, size and supportability will
conflict. Traditionally, designs are established then
"audited" for compliance with various requirements.
Subsequent "corrections" might then create new problems, but
they certainly would slow the process and probably result
in a less than optimum solution from the overall, long-term
view.

To concurrently (or simultaneously) consider numerous
interdependent design issues, in order to optimize within
constraints, requires an application-specific model and
considerable computing power. The thrust of CACED is
to develop appropriate models that allow designers to quickly establish and judge alternatives, simultaneously
evaluating the compromises between often conflicting
requirements.

Computer hardware is readily available to perform design
evaluation tasks--the challenge lies in establishing
appropriate equations and a framework in which they are to
be effectively used. This report explains CACED structure,
illustrates a practical application to refrigeration system
design, and suggests areas of further study.